And the lines there may also be shorter and move more quickly, thanks to some reconfigurations.
The location at 3700 E. Willow St. closed at noon last Oct. 30 for three-plus months of renovations, and it will resume operations on Monday, Feb. 22.
The renovations include reconfiguration and new office furniture in the employee work area, control room, test area, test monitor area, licensing-exam area and manager’s office, according to Jessica Gonzalez from the Office of Public Affairs/Media Relations for the California DMV.
Gonzalez told the Signal Tribune that each year the DMV conducts renovations at different field offices, depending on need. The Long Beach location was determined to be a site that needed updating.
“So, it’s better efficiency for both customers and employees, in the way that they can get through the line,” Gonzalez said. “There will be new flooring, fresh paint and also updated restrooms that will meet [Americans with Disabilities Act] standards, which is very important in all our field offices.”
She said the total project cost is approximately $300,000.
Customers are likely to see a difference right away. “They’ll probably notice a difference when they walk in,” Gonzalez said. “It will visually look different.”
“We’re hoping that it will make the office more efficient [with] better customer flow, getting people in to the counters quickly,” Gonzalez said. “Usually, when we do these renovations, that’s the number-one thing we’re looking for— to help more customers in a shorter amount of time.”
She said all the renovations were on the interior of the building and the parking lot will be the same as before the work.
“I’m thankful the State will soon complete the renovations,” said Councilmember Stacy Mungo, who represents the 5th District, which includes the DMV location. “This local DMV field office is critical to providing access and services for our neighbors.”
For more information, call 1-800-777-0133 or visit dmv.ca.gov .
